The development of modern agriculture requires the reduction of water and chemical N fertilizer inputs.Increasing the planting density can maintain higher yields,but also consumes more of these restrictive resources.H...The development of modern agriculture requires the reduction of water and chemical N fertilizer inputs.Increasing the planting density can maintain higher yields,but also consumes more of these restrictive resources.However,whether an increased maize density can compensate for the negative effects of reduced water and N supply on grain yield and N uptake in the arid irrigated areas remains unknown.This study is part of a long-term positioning trial that started in 2016.A split-split plot field experiment of maize was implemented in the arid irrigated area of northwestern China in 2020 to 2021.The treatments included two irrigation levels:local conventional irrigation reduced by 20%(W1,3,240 m^(3)ha^(-1))and local conventional irrigation(W2,4,050 m^(3)ha^(-1));two N application rates:local conventional N reduced by 25%(N1,270 kg ha^(-1))and local conventional N(360 kg ha^(-1));and three planting densities:local conventional density(D1,75,000 plants ha^(-1)),density increased by 30%(D2,97,500 plants ha-1),and density increased by 60%(D3,120,000 plants ha^(-1)).Our results showed that the grain yield and aboveground N accumulation of maize were lower under the reduced water and N inputs,but increasing the maize density by 30% can compensate for the reductions of grain yield and aboveground N accumulation caused by the reduced water and N supply.When water was reduced while the N application rate remained unchanged,increasing the planting density by 30% enhanced grain yield by 13.9% and aboveground N accumulation by 15.3%.Under reduced water and N inputs,increasing the maize density by 30% enhanced N uptake efficiency and N partial factor productivity,and it also compensated for the N harvest index and N metabolic related enzyme activities.Compared with W2N2D1,the N uptake efficiency and N partial factor productivity increased by 28.6 and 17.6%under W1N1D2.W1N2D2 had 8.4% higher N uptake efficiency and 13.9% higher N partial factor productivity than W2N2D1.W1N2D2 improved urease activity and nitrate reductase activity by 5.4% at the R2(blister)stage and 19.6% at the V6(6th leaf)stage,and increased net income and the benefit:cost ratio by 22.1 and 16.7%,respectively.W1N1D2 and W1N2D2 reduced the nitrate nitrogen and ammoniacal nitrogen contents at the R6 stage in the 40-100 cm soil layer,compared with W2N2D1.In summary,increasing the planting density by 30% can compensate for the loss of grain yield and aboveground N accumulation under reduced water and N inputs.Meanwhile,increasing the maize density by 30% improved grain yield and aboveground N accumulation when water was reduced by 20% while the N application rate remained constant in arid irrigation areas.展开更多
Adjusting agronomic measures to alleviate the kernel position effect in maize is important for ensuring high yields.In order to clarify whether the combined application of organic fertilizer and chemical fertilizer(CA...Adjusting agronomic measures to alleviate the kernel position effect in maize is important for ensuring high yields.In order to clarify whether the combined application of organic fertilizer and chemical fertilizer(CAOFCF)can alleviate the kernel position effect of summer maize,field experiments were conducted during the 2019 and 2020 growing seasons,and five treatments were assessed:CF,100%chemical fertilizer;OFCF1,15%organic fertilizer+85%chemical fertilizer;OFCF2,30%organic fertilizer+70%chemical fertilizer;OFCF3,45%organic fertilizer+55%chemical fertilizer;and OFCF4,60%organic fertilizer+40%chemical fertilizer.Compared with the CF treatment,the OFCF1 and OFCF2 treatments significantly alleviated the kernel position effect by increasing the weight ratio of inferior kernels to superior kernels and reducing the weight gap between the superior and inferior kernels.These effects were largely due to the improved filling and starch accumulation of inferior kernels.However,there were no obvious differences in the kernel position effect among plants treated with CF,OFCF3,or OFCF4 in most cases.Leaf area indexes,post-silking photosynthetic rates,and net assimilation rates were higher in plants treated with OFCF1 or OFCF2 than in those treated with CF,reflecting an enhanced photosynthetic capacity and improved postsilking dry matter accumulation(DMA)in the plants treated with OFCF1 or OFCF2.Compared with the CF treatment,the OFCF1 and OFCF2 treatments increased post-silking N uptake by 66.3 and 75.5%,respectively,which was the major factor driving post-silking photosynthetic capacity and DMA.Moreover,the increases in root DMA and zeatin riboside content observed following the OFCF1 and OFCF2 treatments resulted in reduced root senescence,which is associated with an increased post-silking N uptake.Analyses showed that post-silking N uptake,DMA,and grain yield in summer maize were negatively correlated with the kernel position effect.In conclusion,the combined application of 15-30%organic fertilizer and 70-85%chemical fertilizer alleviated the kernel position effect in summer maize by improving post-silking N uptake and DMA.These results provide new insights into how CAOFCF can be used to improve maize productivity.展开更多
Introduction: COVID-19 vaccine uptake and acceptance have been a major global concern due to the prevalent misinformation and disinformation that has characterized the vaccine rollout worldwide. This study aimed to as...Introduction: COVID-19 vaccine uptake and acceptance have been a major global concern due to the prevalent misinformation and disinformation that has characterized the vaccine rollout worldwide. This study aimed to assess COVID-19 vaccine uptake and acceptance, and associated factors among selected community members in two states in southwestern Nigeria. Method: We conducted a cross-sectional study using a multistage sampling technique. Fifty catchment settlements of 10 health facilities in each of Oyo and Ogun States targeted for a COVID-19 infection prevention and control intervention were randomly selected. Four households were targeted per settlement. All households that refused access were replaced, to ensure a minimum of four households randomly selected per settlement. The primary household decision-maker was interviewed in each household. Information elicited included respondents’ sociodemographic characteristics, health history, knowledge, risk and benefit perception about the COVID-19 vaccine, vaccine uptake, and willingness to be vaccinated. The study was conducted from July–August 2021. Data were analyzed using SPSS IBM version 23. Result: Four hundred household decision-makers were surveyed in Oyo and Ogun states, after replacement. The mean age of the respondents was 43.0 ± 11.0 years. The majority, 346 (86.5%) had heard about COVID-19 vaccination, but only 47 (13.6%) had received a COVID-19 vaccination. Of the 299 respondents who reported not receiving a COVID-19 vaccination, 166 (55.5%) were willing to be vaccinated. In univariate analysis, respondents who were female had tertiary education, perceived that COVID-19 vaccines are free and accessible, perceived that COVID-19 vaccines have minimal side effects, and perceived higher benefits of COVID-19 vaccination had higher odds of being vaccinated. In contrast, younger respondents, respondents with higher knowledge scores on COVID-19 preventive measures, and with chronic illness had lower likelihoods of being vaccinated. In multivariate analysis, only the respondent’s age, perception score on COVID-19 vaccine benefits, knowledge score on IPC measures, and positive response on accessibility and safety were significant after adjusting for other factors. Conclusion: COVID-19 vaccine uptake rate as well as willingness to receive vaccination were low in the study setting. There is an urgent need for policymakers to embark on well-designed campaigns to address barriers to COVID-19 vaccination to increase vaccine uptake.展开更多
The uptake of ammonium,nitrate,phosphorus,and potassium ions by roots is mediated by specific ion transporter or channel proteins,and protein phosphorylation regulation events occurring on these proteins and their reg...The uptake of ammonium,nitrate,phosphorus,and potassium ions by roots is mediated by specific ion transporter or channel proteins,and protein phosphorylation regulation events occurring on these proteins and their regulators determine their ultimate activity.Elucidating the mechanism by which protein phosphorylation modification regulates nutrient uptake will advance plant breeding for high nutrientuse efficiency.In this review,it is concluded that the root nutrient absorption system is composed of several,but not all,members of a specific ion transporter or channel family.Under nutrient-starvation conditions,protein phosphorylation-based regulation of these proteins and associated transcription factors increases ion transporter-or channel-mediated nutrient uptake capacity via direct function activity enhancement,allowing more protein trafficking to the plasma membrane,by strengthening the interaction of transporters and channels with partner proteins,by increasing their protein stability,and by transcriptional activation.Under excessive nutrient conditions,protein phosphorylation-based regulation suppresses nutrient uptake by reversing these processes.Strengthening phosphorylation regulation items that increase nutrient absorption and weakening phosphorylation modification items that are not conducive to nutrient absorption show potential as strategies for increasing nutrient use efficiency.展开更多
Silicon(Si) treatment has been shown to reduce the toxicity and accumulation of lead(Pb) in many plants,including rice.The mechanisms responsible for this effect are poorly understood.We investigated the effects of Si...Silicon(Si) treatment has been shown to reduce the toxicity and accumulation of lead(Pb) in many plants,including rice.The mechanisms responsible for this effect are poorly understood.We investigated the effects of Si treatment on Pb toxicity and accumulation in two rice mutants(lsi1 and lsi2) defective in Si uptake and in their wild types.Si did not alleviate Pb-induced inhibition of root elongation in shortterm experiments,but reduced Pb accumulation in wild types,but not in mutants,in long-term experiments.Pre-treatment with Si reduced Pb concentration in xylem sap and Pb accumulation in wild types but not in mutants.In split-root experiments,Si treatment reduced Pb accumulation but did not alter Pb localization in roots.Si treatment suppressed the expression of many genes encoding proteins that may participate in Pb uptake and transport in the wild type,but not in the lsi1 mutant.These results indicate that Si accumulation in shoots is required to reduce Pb uptake in rice and that the effect is achieved via Siinduced suppression of genes encoding proteins involved in Pb uptake and/or transport.展开更多
Potassium(K) is an essential macronutrient for plant growth and development and influences yield and quality of agricultural crops.Maize(Zea mays) is one of the most widely distributed crops worldwide.In China,althoug...Potassium(K) is an essential macronutrient for plant growth and development and influences yield and quality of agricultural crops.Maize(Zea mays) is one of the most widely distributed crops worldwide.In China,although maize consumes a large amount of K fertilizer,the K uptake/utilization efficiency(KUE)of maize cultivars is relatively low.Elucidation of KUE mechanisms and development of maize cultivars with higher KUE are needed.Maize KUE is determined by K+uptake,transport,and remobilization,which depend on a variety of K+channels and transporters.We review basic information about K+channels and transporters in maize,their functions and regulation,and the roles of K+in nitrogen transport,sugar transport,and salt tolerance.We discuss challenges and prospects for maize KUE improvement.展开更多
Objective:To examine COVID-19 vaccine uptake and its determinants among teenagers and their parents in Zhejiang,China.Methods:An online cross-sectional study was conducted among parents of teenagers in Zhejiang,China ...Objective:To examine COVID-19 vaccine uptake and its determinants among teenagers and their parents in Zhejiang,China.Methods:An online cross-sectional study was conducted among parents of teenagers in Zhejiang,China from May 1 to 31,2022.Data were interpreted via univariate and multivariate analyses using the statistical package for the social sciences(SPSS)program.Results:A total of 11115(96.11%)participants and 11449(99.00%)of their children in Zhejiang,China had been vaccinated against COVID-19.Children whose parents did not receive COVID-19 vaccination were 19 times(aOR 18.96,95%CI 12.36-29.08)more likely to be unvaccinated than their counterparts.In addition,children with no previous influenza vaccination,those whose parents doubted the COVID-19 vaccine’s safety or effectiveness,were 6.11 times(aOR 6.11,95%CI 2.80-13.34),8.27 times(aOR 8.27,95%CI 5.33-12.83),and 2.69 times(aOR 2.69,95%CI 1.11-6.50)more likely to be unvaccinated than their counterparts,respectively.COVID-19 vaccine uptake varied between different sociodemographic groups.However,the odds of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine decreased as age and education level increased.The main refusal reasons claimed by participants were that they had medical conditions that may not qualify them for vaccination(53.78%),followed by safety concerns about the vaccine(13.56%),not knowing where to get vaccinated(6.44%),and concerns about fertility issues(5.56%).Conclusions:Despite a highly encouraging level of COVID-19 vaccine uptake in Zhejiang,China,the elderly and highly educated people had lower COVID-19 vaccine uptake.It is suggested that tailored health education strategies should be taken to increase the COVID-19 vaccine uptake in such groups.Furthermore,with vaccination rates at such a high level,the pandemic is still ongoing,and public confidence in vaccines may decline.Thus,sufficient evidence-based information regarding COVID-19 vaccines should be provided to the public.展开更多
Since 2015, green tides have been blooming in offshore waters of Qinhuangdao, with serious impacts on the local ecological environment and tourism. Ulva australis, Bryopsis plumosa, and U. prolifera are the dominant s...Since 2015, green tides have been blooming in offshore waters of Qinhuangdao, with serious impacts on the local ecological environment and tourism. Ulva australis, Bryopsis plumosa, and U. prolifera are the dominant species of Qinhuangdao green tides, following a sequential succession pattern. Ulva prolifera is the dominant species,with the highest biomass and the greatest influence on the local ecological environment. To study the reason of green tide dominant species succession and U. profilera became the dominant species with the largest biomass,we compared and analyzed the growth and nutrient uptake capacity of the three algae. The results showed that temperature significantly affects the growth of the three species. Within the temperature range of the experimental setup, the optimum temperature for the growth of U. australis, B. plumosa and U. profilera is10℃, 15℃, and 20–25℃, respectively. Combined with the temperature variation trend during green tide bloom development, we believe that temperature is the key environmental factor for the succession of the dominant species. Ulva prolifera has a higher growth rate than U. australis and B. plumosa under the same nitrate,ammonium, and phosphate levels. Significant differences in the maximum absorption rate(R_(max)) and R_(max)/Ks(the relationship between uptake rate and substrate concentration) values indicated that U. prolifera had an apparent competitive advantage over U. australis and B. plumosa regarding nutrient uptake. Therefore, the strong growth and nutrient uptake capacities of U. prolifera might be the main reason for becoming the dominant species with the largest biomass in Qinhuangdao green tides.展开更多
BACKGROUND Advanced glycation end products(AGEs)are diabetic metabolic toxic products that cannot be ignored.Nε-(carboxymethyl)lysine(CML),a component of AGEs,could increase macrophage lipid uptake,promote foam cell ...BACKGROUND Advanced glycation end products(AGEs)are diabetic metabolic toxic products that cannot be ignored.Nε-(carboxymethyl)lysine(CML),a component of AGEs,could increase macrophage lipid uptake,promote foam cell formation,and thereby accelerate atherosclerosis.The receptor for AGEs(RAGE)and cluster of differentiation 36(CD36)were the receptors of CML.However,it is still unknown whether RAGE and CD36 play key roles in CML-promoted lipid uptake.AIM Our study aimed to explore the role of RAGE and CD36 in CML-induced macrophage lipid uptake.METHODS In this study,we examined the effect of CML on lipid uptake by Raw264.7 macrophages.After adding 10 mmol/L CML,the lipid accumulation in macrophages was confirmed by oil red O staining.Expression changes of CD36 and RAGE were detected with immunoblotting and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction.The interaction between CML with CD36 and RAGE was verified by immunoprecipitation.We synthesized a novel N-succinimidyl-4-18Ffluorobenzoate-CML radioactive probe.Radioactive receptor-ligand binding assays were performed to test the binding affinity between CML with CD36 and RAGE.The effects of blocking CD36 or RAGE on CML-promoting lipid uptake were also detected.RESULTS The study revealed that CML significantly promoted lipid uptake by macrophages.Immunoprecipitation and radioactive receptor-ligand binding assays indicated that CML could specifically bind to both CD36 and RAGE.CML had a higher affinity for CD36 than RAGE.ARG82,ASN71,and THR70 were the potential interacting amino acids that CD36 binds to CML Anti-CD36 and anti-RAGE could block the uptake of CML by macrophages.The lipid uptake promotion effect of CML was significantly attenuated after blocking CD36 or RAGE.CONCLUSION Our results suggest that the binding of CML with CD36 and RAGE promotes macrophage lipid uptake.展开更多
Background: HPV vaccines were introduced globally as one of the most effective strategies to prevent cervical cancer. HPV vaccines were rolled out in Kenya in 2019 targeting girls aged 10 - 14 years, but the uptake ha...Background: HPV vaccines were introduced globally as one of the most effective strategies to prevent cervical cancer. HPV vaccines were rolled out in Kenya in 2019 targeting girls aged 10 - 14 years, but the uptake has not been satisfactory. The Purpose of the Study: The aim of the study was to assess the level of HPV uptake among girls aged 10 - 14 years in Rongai and Nakuru West Sub-Counties in Nakuru County. Method: This was a cross-sectional study where data on HPV uptake was retrieved from all the public health facilities located in Rongai and Nakuru West Sub-Counties, Nakuru County, entered into Microsoft Excel then transferred to SPSS version 26 for analysis of HPV vaccine uptake since the year 2019 to June 2022. Data Analysis: Descriptive statistics were used where tables and graphs were generated to represent the percentages and trends of HPV vaccine uptake. Results: The average percentage of HPV uptake in Nakuru West Sub-County since the rollout of vaccination was 17% while that of Rongai Sub-County was 15%. In 2019, HPV 1 uptake was generally low for both Sub-Counties, the results show no HPV 2 vaccines were administered during that year. In 2020, Nakuru West reported an increase in HPV 1 uptake, while Rongai reported a drop in HPV 1 uptake. Both Sub-Counties reported an increase in HPV 2 in 2020 as compared to the previous year. The highest HPV 1 & 2 uptakes were reported in 2021 in both Sub-Counties. The uptake of both HPV 1 & 2 kept increasing subsequently. Conclusion: The overall uptake of HPV vaccines for Doses 1 and 2, in both Rongai and Nakuru West Sub-Counties, is low. However, there has been a consistent increase in uptake of the two doses in the two Sub-Counties since 2019. Therefore, raising public awareness of the importance of HPV vaccination could improve uptake.展开更多
Background: Breast cancer is the leading cause of death from cancer in women worldwide. It can be stratified by histological and immunopathological analysis as well as by molecular subtypes. Socioeconomic and cultural...Background: Breast cancer is the leading cause of death from cancer in women worldwide. It can be stratified by histological and immunopathological analysis as well as by molecular subtypes. Socioeconomic and cultural-mediated factors contribute to breast cancer heterogeneity and overall survivability. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the influence of socioeconomic profile on the uptake of immunohistochemistry (IHC) services among women with breast cancer attending tertiary health facilities in Imo State. Methodology: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among women with breast cancer in Imo State. The instrument for data collection used was a structured questionnaire constructed in line with the objectives of the study. A total of 121 respondents were selected randomly from a target study population of 891 using a systematic sampling technique. The software Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21 was used for data analysis. Results: The mean age of the 121 respondents in this study was 45.2 ± 0.7 years. Age and education levels of the respondents were found to significantly influence the utilization of IHC services (P Conclusion: In our study, the consumption of IHC services was influenced significantly by the respondents’ age and level of education. Consequently, public health awareness programmes centred on the importance of IHC services in the management of breast cancer should be encouraged, so as to reach the less educationally endowed and older women in order to save more lives.展开更多
Background: Zambia has a population of 17.4 million people of which 48% are unable to meet their minimum calorie requirement and 35% of the children in Zambia are stunted (ZDHS, 2018). In the 2018 ZDHS report, 31% of ...Background: Zambia has a population of 17.4 million people of which 48% are unable to meet their minimum calorie requirement and 35% of the children in Zambia are stunted (ZDHS, 2018). In the 2018 ZDHS report, 31% of women aged 15 - 49 had anaemia. Most cases of anaemia in pregnancy are due to micronutrient deficiency and maternal malnutrition. The 2020 Zambia Global Nutrition Report shows an increase in the prevalence of anaemia among women of reproductive age (45%) and low birth weight infants (13.0%) which suggested a need to explore determinants of pregnant women’s nutrition uptake in order to improve the nutritional status of pregnant women particularly those in Solwezi district of the north-western province of Zambia. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on antenatal mothers aged 15 - 49 accessing routine antenatal care from four selected health facilities in Solwezi district from July 2021 to February 2021. Cluster sampling method was used to select the 4 health facilities and the 98 antenatal mothers were selected using systematic sampling method. Data was collected using a pretested researcher-assisted semi-structured questionnaire and analyzed using the SPSS version 26. Chi-square test was used to determine associations between the independent and independent variables. The level of significance was set at 0.05 and the confidence interval was set at 95%. Multiple logistic regression analysis was done to predict associations among variables. Results: The findings revealed that a large proportion of respondents (71.4 %) had high knowledge regarding nutrition during pregnancy compared to (19.4%) and (9.2%) who expressed medium and low knowledge levels respectively. Attitude towards nutrition in pregnancy was positive in the majority, 82 (83.7%) of the respondents, and over half, (55%) of the respondents reported good nutrition uptake during pregnancy. Conclusions: In this study, nutrition uptake in pregnancy was significantly associated with women’s attitudes towards nutrition. It was also observed that more respondents who had a positive attitude towards nutrition had good nutrition uptake during pregnancy. We can therefore, conclude that the research study has revealed that majority of the respondents had high knowledge level and positive attitudes towards nutrition during pregnancy and only half of the respondents had good nutrition uptake during pregnancy which should be able to prompt all the stakeholders of health to focus their attention on behavioural change messages, policies and intervention in order to enhance good nutrition uptake among pregnant women.展开更多
Background: Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women, making it a significant global public health issue. Although developed countries have a higher incidence of breast cancer, developing coun...Background: Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women, making it a significant global public health issue. Although developed countries have a higher incidence of breast cancer, developing countries like Nigeria have a low incidence rate but higher rates of morbidity and mortality from the disease. Objective: This study explored how cues to action influenced the use of immunohistochemistry by women in Imo State and how many of them used immunohistochemistry (IHC) to diagnose their condition. Methodology: We used a descriptive study methodology for the investigation, and 121 participants were chosen at random from the 891 total population. The respondents were chosen through a systematic sampling procedure. Structured questionnaire was used as the data collection tool, and the statistical software for social science (SPSS) was used to analyze the data. Results: The mean age of the 121 participants in the study was 45.2 ± 0.7 years. The study found that awareness of IHC services is a significant influencing factor for the uptake and health personnel is the major source of awareness of IHC services. Cues to action particularly from health workers, as well as knowledge of any victim of breast cancer and user of IHC services, also significantly influenced uptake of the IHC services (P Conclusion: In our study, utilization of IHC services was also impacted by cues to action, particularly from healthcare professionals, as well as awareness of any breast cancer victims and those who used IHC services thus cues to action is a major predicator of immunohistochemistry uptake among women with breast cancer.展开更多
BACKGROUND In 2019,the Nigerian Ministry of Health published the first operational guidelines for human immunodeficiency virus self-testing(HIVST)to improve access to human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)testing services ...BACKGROUND In 2019,the Nigerian Ministry of Health published the first operational guidelines for human immunodeficiency virus self-testing(HIVST)to improve access to human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)testing services among undertested populations in the country.Also,as part of the campaign to increase HIV testing services in Nigeria,the Nigerian Ministry of Health developed standard operating procedures for using HIVST kits.AIM To systematically review the acceptability and strategies for enhancing the uptake of HIVST in Nigeria.METHODS The systematic review was conducted and reported in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses.Different databases were searched to get the necessary materials needed for this review.Standardized forms developed by the authors were used for data extraction to minimize the risk of bias and ensure that the articles used for the study were properly screened.Identified articles were first screened using the titles and their abstracts.The full papers were screened,and the similarities of the documents were determined.Qualitative,quantitative,and mixed-method studies were evaluated using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme and Critical Appraisal Framework criteria.RESULTS All the publications reviewed were published between 2015 and 2022,with 33.3%published in 2021.Most(77.8%)of the studies were cross-sectional,43.3%were conducted in Lagos State,and 26.3%were conducted among young people.The study revealed a high level of acceptability of HIVST.Certain factors,such as gender,sexual activity,and previous testing experience,influence the acceptability of HIV self-testing,with some individuals more likely to opt-out.The cost of the kit was reported as the strongest factor for choosing HIVST services,and this ranged from 200 to 4000 Naira(approximately United States Dollar 0.55-11.07),with the majority willing to pay 500 Naira(approximately United States Dollar 1.38).Privately-owned,registered pharmacies,youthfriendly centres,supermarkets,and online stores were the most cited access locations for HIVST.The least influential attribute was the type of specimen needed for HIVST.Strategies addressing cost and preferred access points and diverse needs for social media promotion,local translation of product use instructions,and HIVST distribution led by key opinion leaders for key populations were found to significantly enhance HIVST uptake and linkage to care.CONCLUSION HIVST acceptability is generally high from an intention-to-use perspective.Targeted strategies are required to improve the acceptability of HIV self-testing,especially among males,sexually active individuals,and first-time testers.Identified and proposed uptake-enhancing strategies need to be investigated in controlled settings and among different populations and distribution models in Nigeria.展开更多
HIV counseling and testing(HCT)has become paramount in the prevention and control of HIV/AIDS worldwide.However,the uptake of HCT has been very slow globally,especially in sub-Saharan Africa.Student nurses formed the ...HIV counseling and testing(HCT)has become paramount in the prevention and control of HIV/AIDS worldwide.However,the uptake of HCT has been very slow globally,especially in sub-Saharan Africa.Student nurses formed the largest group undergoing health care training in the country compared to doctors and other health cadres.According to WHO,they are part of the most vulnerable group to HIV infection,judging by the fact that they interact more with patients/clients than other healthcare professionals.This study aimed to determine the prevalence of HCT uptake,knowledge,and attitude and evaluate influencing factors among student nurses and midwives in public nursing schools.An institutional-based cross-sectional study design was employed to collect data from 305 randomly selected nursing students and midwives using a validated and reliable self-administered questionnaire.Descriptive statistics(percentages,mean and standard deviation)and inferential statistics(chi square,logistics regression,one-way ANOVA and independent samples t-test)were used for data analysis using SPSS version 25.0.A p-value<0.05 was considered for statistical significance.Out of the 305 students recruited for the study,60.98%were females,with a mean age of 25.5 years old.About 58.4%of the participants had tested for HIV in the past.About 95.7%acknowledged the importance of HCT in the prevention and control of HIV/AIDS.HCT uptake among student nurses and midwives was influenced by factors ranging from an individual that are interpersonal challenges(such as concerns of friends),perceived susceptibility to the disease,lack of confidentiality,stigma and discrimination from health service providers.Therefore,these barriers can be addressed through an organized targeted health education intervention and advocacy programs across health training institutions in the Gambia and beyond.展开更多
The objectives of this investigation are to study nitrogen uptake,translocation,accumulation and distribution in mango tree organs using labeled nitrogen(^(15)N)and to understand the mechanism of boron action in incre...The objectives of this investigation are to study nitrogen uptake,translocation,accumulation and distribution in mango tree organs using labeled nitrogen(^(15)N)and to understand the mechanism of boron action in increasing fruit yield in the off-year.A field experiment was conducted using fifteen-year-old mango trees(cv.Zebda)grown at Al Malak Valley Farm,El-Sharkeya Governorate-Egypt.Treatments included the application of(^(15)NH4)2SO4,“in the on-year”,at a rate of 50 g nitrogen/tree through the stem injection technique.While boron was sprayed on the same trees“in the off-year”at the following rates:0.0(control),250 and 500 mg·L^(-1).The authors hypothesize that boron and nitrogen act synergistically to increase mango fruit yield in the off-year.Results indicated that the highest ^(15)N uptake and accumulation in the on and off-years was observed in the upper(young leaves).When boron was applied at 250 mg·L^(-1),in the off-year,the upper(young leaves)recorded the highest ^(15)N uptake and accumulation(%^(15)Ndff=13.93)relative to the other two leaf categories and those of the on-year.In the on-year fruit accumulated higher ^(15)N than leaf or bud.In the off-year,bud exhibited the highest ^(15)N accumulation without boron application,while leaves exhibited the highest ^(15)N with boron application.The highest%^(15)Ndff in all tree organs was observed at 250 mg·L^(-1) boron rate.Boron increased nitrogen uptake,translocation and accumulation in mango tree organs.A synergistic relationship was observed between boron and nitrogen which led to an increase in fruit yield in the off-year.展开更多
BACKGROUND Fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography(F-18 FDG PET/CT),a functional imaging method,is usually performed on the entire torso,and regions of unexpected suspicious foc...BACKGROUND Fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography(F-18 FDG PET/CT),a functional imaging method,is usually performed on the entire torso,and regions of unexpected suspicious focal hypermetabolism are not infrequently observed.Among the regions,colon,thyroid,and prostate were found to be the common organs in a recent umbrella review.Some studies reported that a high rate of malignancy was shown in incidentally identified focal hypermetabolic regions and suggested that further examinations should not be ignored.AIM To investigate the malignancy rate of incidental focal FDG uptake,useful PET parameters and their cutoffs in discrimination between malignant and benign lesions.METHODS Retrospectively,the final reports of 16510 F-18 FDG PET/CT scans performed at our hospital between January 2016 and March 2022 were reviewed to identify incidentally observed FDG uptake in the colon/rectum,thyroid,and prostate.The scans of patients with current or prior malignancies at each corresponding location,without the final reports of histopathology or colonoscopy(for colon and rectum)for the corresponding hypermetabolic regions,or with diffuse(not focal)hypermetabolism were excluded.Finally,88 regions of focal colorectal hypermetabolism in 85 patients(48 men and 37 women with mean age 67.0±13.4 years and 63.4±15.8 years,respectively),48 focal thyroid uptakes in 48 patients(12 men and 36 women with mean age 62.2±13.1 years and 60.8±12.4 years,respectively),and 39 focal prostate uptakes in 39 patients(mean age 71.8±7.5 years)were eligible for this study.For those unexpected focal hypermetabolic regions,rates of malignancy were calculated,PET parameters,such as standardized uptake value(SUV),capable of distinguishing between malignant and benign lesions were investigated,and the cutoffs of those PET parameters were determined by plotting receiver operating characteristic curves.RESULTS In the colon and rectum,29.5%(26/88)were malignant and 33.0%(29/88)were premalignant lesions.Both SUVmax and SUVpeak differentiated malignant/premalignant from benign lesions,however,no parameters could distinguish malignant from premalignant lesions.Higher area under the curve was shown with SUVmax(0.752,95%CI:0.649-0.856,P<0.001)and the cutoff was 7.6.In the thyroid,60.4%(29/48)were malignant.The majority were well-differentiated thyroid cancers(89.7%,26/29).The results of BRAF mutation tests were available for 20 of the 26 welldifferentiated thyroid cancers and all 20 had the mutation.Solely SUVmax differentiated malignant from benign lesions and the cutoff was 6.9.In the prostate,56.4%(22/39)were malignant.Only SUVmax differentiated malignant from benign lesions and the cutoff was 3.8.Overall,among the 175 focal hypermetabolic regions,60.6%(106/175)were proven to be malignant and premalignant(in colon and rectum)lesions.CONCLUSION Approximately 60%of the incidentally observed focal F-18 FDG uptake in the colon/rectum,thyroid,and prostate were found to be malignant.Of the several PET parameters,SUVmax was superior to others in distinguishing between malignant/premalignant and benign lesions.Based on these findings,incidental focal hypermetabolism should not be ignored and lead physicians to conduct further investigations with greater confidence.展开更多
The present study explored the features and the effectiveness of teachers' oral CF in the classrooms of Teaching English as a Foreign Language(TEFL) for minority students in Xinjiang junior high schools. The analy...The present study explored the features and the effectiveness of teachers' oral CF in the classrooms of Teaching English as a Foreign Language(TEFL) for minority students in Xinjiang junior high schools. The analytical framework of this study consulted Lyster's(1998) coding scheme. 720 minutes of classroom observation were recorded and transcribed. The database was coded and the distribution of errors, CF and uptake was analyzed.展开更多
The efficacy of focus-on-form(FonF)within the context of communicatively-oriented language activities is measured via uptake.Uptake is defined as learners’verbal responses immediately following either preemptive or r...The efficacy of focus-on-form(FonF)within the context of communicatively-oriented language activities is measured via uptake.Uptake is defined as learners’verbal responses immediately following either preemptive or reactive FonF instruction(Loewen,2004).The present study investigated what is(not)meant and(not)measured through this definition of uptake.Drawing on the audio-recorded analysis of 20 hours of communicatively–oriented interactions in an intermediate IELTS class with two teachers,this study investigates the frequency of preemptive and reactive incidental FonF,and the subsequent occurrence of uptake in an English as a foreign language context.This study also provided an in-depth qualitative analysis of these classes through field notes,learner notes,and video-recorded data to explore the instances of uptake moves that were not captured through audio-recorded data.The quantitative findings of this study demonstrated a very low and disappointing uptake rate.Furthermore,the study did not find a significant difference between reactive and preemptive FonF in terms of uptake rate.Nonetheless,the qualitative data revealed a myriad of uptake instances not observable via the initial data analysis.Based on these findings,a new definition of uptake is suggested,which includes camouflaged uptake and learners’immediate oral responses to FonF.Since uptake is used to gauge the efficacy of incidental FonF in primarily meaning–oriented classes,it is concluded that audio-recorded data just show the tip of the iceberg as far as the uptake rate is concerned.Thus,second language acquisition researchers are recommended to employ multiple indices to examine the effectiveness of FonF instruction.展开更多
基金financial support of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(U21A20218 and 32101857)the‘Double First-Class’Key Scientific Research Project of Education Department in Gansu Province,China(GSSYLXM-02)+1 种基金the Fuxi Young Talents Fund of Gansu Agricultural University,China(Gaufx03Y10)the“Innovation Star”Program of Graduate Students in 2023 of Gansu Province,China(2023CXZX681)。
文摘The development of modern agriculture requires the reduction of water and chemical N fertilizer inputs.Increasing the planting density can maintain higher yields,but also consumes more of these restrictive resources.However,whether an increased maize density can compensate for the negative effects of reduced water and N supply on grain yield and N uptake in the arid irrigated areas remains unknown.This study is part of a long-term positioning trial that started in 2016.A split-split plot field experiment of maize was implemented in the arid irrigated area of northwestern China in 2020 to 2021.The treatments included two irrigation levels:local conventional irrigation reduced by 20%(W1,3,240 m^(3)ha^(-1))and local conventional irrigation(W2,4,050 m^(3)ha^(-1));two N application rates:local conventional N reduced by 25%(N1,270 kg ha^(-1))and local conventional N(360 kg ha^(-1));and three planting densities:local conventional density(D1,75,000 plants ha^(-1)),density increased by 30%(D2,97,500 plants ha-1),and density increased by 60%(D3,120,000 plants ha^(-1)).Our results showed that the grain yield and aboveground N accumulation of maize were lower under the reduced water and N inputs,but increasing the maize density by 30% can compensate for the reductions of grain yield and aboveground N accumulation caused by the reduced water and N supply.When water was reduced while the N application rate remained unchanged,increasing the planting density by 30% enhanced grain yield by 13.9% and aboveground N accumulation by 15.3%.Under reduced water and N inputs,increasing the maize density by 30% enhanced N uptake efficiency and N partial factor productivity,and it also compensated for the N harvest index and N metabolic related enzyme activities.Compared with W2N2D1,the N uptake efficiency and N partial factor productivity increased by 28.6 and 17.6%under W1N1D2.W1N2D2 had 8.4% higher N uptake efficiency and 13.9% higher N partial factor productivity than W2N2D1.W1N2D2 improved urease activity and nitrate reductase activity by 5.4% at the R2(blister)stage and 19.6% at the V6(6th leaf)stage,and increased net income and the benefit:cost ratio by 22.1 and 16.7%,respectively.W1N1D2 and W1N2D2 reduced the nitrate nitrogen and ammoniacal nitrogen contents at the R6 stage in the 40-100 cm soil layer,compared with W2N2D1.In summary,increasing the planting density by 30% can compensate for the loss of grain yield and aboveground N accumulation under reduced water and N inputs.Meanwhile,increasing the maize density by 30% improved grain yield and aboveground N accumulation when water was reduced by 20% while the N application rate remained constant in arid irrigation areas.
基金financially supported by the HAAFS Science and Technology Innovation Special Project China(2022KJCXZX-LYS-9)the Natural Science Foundation of Hebei Province China(C2021301004)the Key Research and Dvelopment Program of Hebei Province China(20326401D)。
文摘Adjusting agronomic measures to alleviate the kernel position effect in maize is important for ensuring high yields.In order to clarify whether the combined application of organic fertilizer and chemical fertilizer(CAOFCF)can alleviate the kernel position effect of summer maize,field experiments were conducted during the 2019 and 2020 growing seasons,and five treatments were assessed:CF,100%chemical fertilizer;OFCF1,15%organic fertilizer+85%chemical fertilizer;OFCF2,30%organic fertilizer+70%chemical fertilizer;OFCF3,45%organic fertilizer+55%chemical fertilizer;and OFCF4,60%organic fertilizer+40%chemical fertilizer.Compared with the CF treatment,the OFCF1 and OFCF2 treatments significantly alleviated the kernel position effect by increasing the weight ratio of inferior kernels to superior kernels and reducing the weight gap between the superior and inferior kernels.These effects were largely due to the improved filling and starch accumulation of inferior kernels.However,there were no obvious differences in the kernel position effect among plants treated with CF,OFCF3,or OFCF4 in most cases.Leaf area indexes,post-silking photosynthetic rates,and net assimilation rates were higher in plants treated with OFCF1 or OFCF2 than in those treated with CF,reflecting an enhanced photosynthetic capacity and improved postsilking dry matter accumulation(DMA)in the plants treated with OFCF1 or OFCF2.Compared with the CF treatment,the OFCF1 and OFCF2 treatments increased post-silking N uptake by 66.3 and 75.5%,respectively,which was the major factor driving post-silking photosynthetic capacity and DMA.Moreover,the increases in root DMA and zeatin riboside content observed following the OFCF1 and OFCF2 treatments resulted in reduced root senescence,which is associated with an increased post-silking N uptake.Analyses showed that post-silking N uptake,DMA,and grain yield in summer maize were negatively correlated with the kernel position effect.In conclusion,the combined application of 15-30%organic fertilizer and 70-85%chemical fertilizer alleviated the kernel position effect in summer maize by improving post-silking N uptake and DMA.These results provide new insights into how CAOFCF can be used to improve maize productivity.
文摘Introduction: COVID-19 vaccine uptake and acceptance have been a major global concern due to the prevalent misinformation and disinformation that has characterized the vaccine rollout worldwide. This study aimed to assess COVID-19 vaccine uptake and acceptance, and associated factors among selected community members in two states in southwestern Nigeria. Method: We conducted a cross-sectional study using a multistage sampling technique. Fifty catchment settlements of 10 health facilities in each of Oyo and Ogun States targeted for a COVID-19 infection prevention and control intervention were randomly selected. Four households were targeted per settlement. All households that refused access were replaced, to ensure a minimum of four households randomly selected per settlement. The primary household decision-maker was interviewed in each household. Information elicited included respondents’ sociodemographic characteristics, health history, knowledge, risk and benefit perception about the COVID-19 vaccine, vaccine uptake, and willingness to be vaccinated. The study was conducted from July–August 2021. Data were analyzed using SPSS IBM version 23. Result: Four hundred household decision-makers were surveyed in Oyo and Ogun states, after replacement. The mean age of the respondents was 43.0 ± 11.0 years. The majority, 346 (86.5%) had heard about COVID-19 vaccination, but only 47 (13.6%) had received a COVID-19 vaccination. Of the 299 respondents who reported not receiving a COVID-19 vaccination, 166 (55.5%) were willing to be vaccinated. In univariate analysis, respondents who were female had tertiary education, perceived that COVID-19 vaccines are free and accessible, perceived that COVID-19 vaccines have minimal side effects, and perceived higher benefits of COVID-19 vaccination had higher odds of being vaccinated. In contrast, younger respondents, respondents with higher knowledge scores on COVID-19 preventive measures, and with chronic illness had lower likelihoods of being vaccinated. In multivariate analysis, only the respondent’s age, perception score on COVID-19 vaccine benefits, knowledge score on IPC measures, and positive response on accessibility and safety were significant after adjusting for other factors. Conclusion: COVID-19 vaccine uptake rate as well as willingness to receive vaccination were low in the study setting. There is an urgent need for policymakers to embark on well-designed campaigns to address barriers to COVID-19 vaccination to increase vaccine uptake.
基金supported by the Jiangsu Provincial DoubleInnovation Doctor Program(JSSCBS20221643)the Jiangsu Institute of Botany Talent Fund(JIBTF202210)+2 种基金the Program for the Young Innovative Talents of Jiangsu Vocational College of Agriculture and Forest(2021kj26)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32101429)Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province,China(BK20200288)。
文摘The uptake of ammonium,nitrate,phosphorus,and potassium ions by roots is mediated by specific ion transporter or channel proteins,and protein phosphorylation regulation events occurring on these proteins and their regulators determine their ultimate activity.Elucidating the mechanism by which protein phosphorylation modification regulates nutrient uptake will advance plant breeding for high nutrientuse efficiency.In this review,it is concluded that the root nutrient absorption system is composed of several,but not all,members of a specific ion transporter or channel family.Under nutrient-starvation conditions,protein phosphorylation-based regulation of these proteins and associated transcription factors increases ion transporter-or channel-mediated nutrient uptake capacity via direct function activity enhancement,allowing more protein trafficking to the plasma membrane,by strengthening the interaction of transporters and channels with partner proteins,by increasing their protein stability,and by transcriptional activation.Under excessive nutrient conditions,protein phosphorylation-based regulation suppresses nutrient uptake by reversing these processes.Strengthening phosphorylation regulation items that increase nutrient absorption and weakening phosphorylation modification items that are not conducive to nutrient absorption show potential as strategies for increasing nutrient use efficiency.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (31972495 to JFS)the Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China (LQ20C160005)Fundamental Research Funds for the Provincial Universities of Zhejiang (2020KJ002)。
文摘Silicon(Si) treatment has been shown to reduce the toxicity and accumulation of lead(Pb) in many plants,including rice.The mechanisms responsible for this effect are poorly understood.We investigated the effects of Si treatment on Pb toxicity and accumulation in two rice mutants(lsi1 and lsi2) defective in Si uptake and in their wild types.Si did not alleviate Pb-induced inhibition of root elongation in shortterm experiments,but reduced Pb accumulation in wild types,but not in mutants,in long-term experiments.Pre-treatment with Si reduced Pb concentration in xylem sap and Pb accumulation in wild types but not in mutants.In split-root experiments,Si treatment reduced Pb accumulation but did not alter Pb localization in roots.Si treatment suppressed the expression of many genes encoding proteins that may participate in Pb uptake and transport in the wild type,but not in the lsi1 mutant.These results indicate that Si accumulation in shoots is required to reduce Pb uptake in rice and that the effect is achieved via Siinduced suppression of genes encoding proteins involved in Pb uptake and/or transport.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China (2021YFF1000500)National Natural Science Foundation of China (32025004, 32161133014, and31921001)Beijing Outstanding University Discipline Program。
文摘Potassium(K) is an essential macronutrient for plant growth and development and influences yield and quality of agricultural crops.Maize(Zea mays) is one of the most widely distributed crops worldwide.In China,although maize consumes a large amount of K fertilizer,the K uptake/utilization efficiency(KUE)of maize cultivars is relatively low.Elucidation of KUE mechanisms and development of maize cultivars with higher KUE are needed.Maize KUE is determined by K+uptake,transport,and remobilization,which depend on a variety of K+channels and transporters.We review basic information about K+channels and transporters in maize,their functions and regulation,and the roles of K+in nitrogen transport,sugar transport,and salt tolerance.We discuss challenges and prospects for maize KUE improvement.
基金support of the Zhejiang Medicine and Health Technology project (2022KY716)
文摘Objective:To examine COVID-19 vaccine uptake and its determinants among teenagers and their parents in Zhejiang,China.Methods:An online cross-sectional study was conducted among parents of teenagers in Zhejiang,China from May 1 to 31,2022.Data were interpreted via univariate and multivariate analyses using the statistical package for the social sciences(SPSS)program.Results:A total of 11115(96.11%)participants and 11449(99.00%)of their children in Zhejiang,China had been vaccinated against COVID-19.Children whose parents did not receive COVID-19 vaccination were 19 times(aOR 18.96,95%CI 12.36-29.08)more likely to be unvaccinated than their counterparts.In addition,children with no previous influenza vaccination,those whose parents doubted the COVID-19 vaccine’s safety or effectiveness,were 6.11 times(aOR 6.11,95%CI 2.80-13.34),8.27 times(aOR 8.27,95%CI 5.33-12.83),and 2.69 times(aOR 2.69,95%CI 1.11-6.50)more likely to be unvaccinated than their counterparts,respectively.COVID-19 vaccine uptake varied between different sociodemographic groups.However,the odds of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine decreased as age and education level increased.The main refusal reasons claimed by participants were that they had medical conditions that may not qualify them for vaccination(53.78%),followed by safety concerns about the vaccine(13.56%),not knowing where to get vaccinated(6.44%),and concerns about fertility issues(5.56%).Conclusions:Despite a highly encouraging level of COVID-19 vaccine uptake in Zhejiang,China,the elderly and highly educated people had lower COVID-19 vaccine uptake.It is suggested that tailored health education strategies should be taken to increase the COVID-19 vaccine uptake in such groups.Furthermore,with vaccination rates at such a high level,the pandemic is still ongoing,and public confidence in vaccines may decline.Thus,sufficient evidence-based information regarding COVID-19 vaccines should be provided to the public.
基金The Fund of Key Laboratory of Ecological Prewarning,Protection and Restoration of Bohai Sea,Ministry of Natural Resources under contract No.2022107the Qingdao Postdoctoral Applied Research Project under contract No.QDBSH202001。
文摘Since 2015, green tides have been blooming in offshore waters of Qinhuangdao, with serious impacts on the local ecological environment and tourism. Ulva australis, Bryopsis plumosa, and U. prolifera are the dominant species of Qinhuangdao green tides, following a sequential succession pattern. Ulva prolifera is the dominant species,with the highest biomass and the greatest influence on the local ecological environment. To study the reason of green tide dominant species succession and U. profilera became the dominant species with the largest biomass,we compared and analyzed the growth and nutrient uptake capacity of the three algae. The results showed that temperature significantly affects the growth of the three species. Within the temperature range of the experimental setup, the optimum temperature for the growth of U. australis, B. plumosa and U. profilera is10℃, 15℃, and 20–25℃, respectively. Combined with the temperature variation trend during green tide bloom development, we believe that temperature is the key environmental factor for the succession of the dominant species. Ulva prolifera has a higher growth rate than U. australis and B. plumosa under the same nitrate,ammonium, and phosphate levels. Significant differences in the maximum absorption rate(R_(max)) and R_(max)/Ks(the relationship between uptake rate and substrate concentration) values indicated that U. prolifera had an apparent competitive advantage over U. australis and B. plumosa regarding nutrient uptake. Therefore, the strong growth and nutrient uptake capacities of U. prolifera might be the main reason for becoming the dominant species with the largest biomass in Qinhuangdao green tides.
基金Supported by The National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82070455Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province,No.BK20201225Medical Innovation Team Project of Jiangsu Province,No.CXTDA2017010。
文摘BACKGROUND Advanced glycation end products(AGEs)are diabetic metabolic toxic products that cannot be ignored.Nε-(carboxymethyl)lysine(CML),a component of AGEs,could increase macrophage lipid uptake,promote foam cell formation,and thereby accelerate atherosclerosis.The receptor for AGEs(RAGE)and cluster of differentiation 36(CD36)were the receptors of CML.However,it is still unknown whether RAGE and CD36 play key roles in CML-promoted lipid uptake.AIM Our study aimed to explore the role of RAGE and CD36 in CML-induced macrophage lipid uptake.METHODS In this study,we examined the effect of CML on lipid uptake by Raw264.7 macrophages.After adding 10 mmol/L CML,the lipid accumulation in macrophages was confirmed by oil red O staining.Expression changes of CD36 and RAGE were detected with immunoblotting and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction.The interaction between CML with CD36 and RAGE was verified by immunoprecipitation.We synthesized a novel N-succinimidyl-4-18Ffluorobenzoate-CML radioactive probe.Radioactive receptor-ligand binding assays were performed to test the binding affinity between CML with CD36 and RAGE.The effects of blocking CD36 or RAGE on CML-promoting lipid uptake were also detected.RESULTS The study revealed that CML significantly promoted lipid uptake by macrophages.Immunoprecipitation and radioactive receptor-ligand binding assays indicated that CML could specifically bind to both CD36 and RAGE.CML had a higher affinity for CD36 than RAGE.ARG82,ASN71,and THR70 were the potential interacting amino acids that CD36 binds to CML Anti-CD36 and anti-RAGE could block the uptake of CML by macrophages.The lipid uptake promotion effect of CML was significantly attenuated after blocking CD36 or RAGE.CONCLUSION Our results suggest that the binding of CML with CD36 and RAGE promotes macrophage lipid uptake.
文摘Background: HPV vaccines were introduced globally as one of the most effective strategies to prevent cervical cancer. HPV vaccines were rolled out in Kenya in 2019 targeting girls aged 10 - 14 years, but the uptake has not been satisfactory. The Purpose of the Study: The aim of the study was to assess the level of HPV uptake among girls aged 10 - 14 years in Rongai and Nakuru West Sub-Counties in Nakuru County. Method: This was a cross-sectional study where data on HPV uptake was retrieved from all the public health facilities located in Rongai and Nakuru West Sub-Counties, Nakuru County, entered into Microsoft Excel then transferred to SPSS version 26 for analysis of HPV vaccine uptake since the year 2019 to June 2022. Data Analysis: Descriptive statistics were used where tables and graphs were generated to represent the percentages and trends of HPV vaccine uptake. Results: The average percentage of HPV uptake in Nakuru West Sub-County since the rollout of vaccination was 17% while that of Rongai Sub-County was 15%. In 2019, HPV 1 uptake was generally low for both Sub-Counties, the results show no HPV 2 vaccines were administered during that year. In 2020, Nakuru West reported an increase in HPV 1 uptake, while Rongai reported a drop in HPV 1 uptake. Both Sub-Counties reported an increase in HPV 2 in 2020 as compared to the previous year. The highest HPV 1 & 2 uptakes were reported in 2021 in both Sub-Counties. The uptake of both HPV 1 & 2 kept increasing subsequently. Conclusion: The overall uptake of HPV vaccines for Doses 1 and 2, in both Rongai and Nakuru West Sub-Counties, is low. However, there has been a consistent increase in uptake of the two doses in the two Sub-Counties since 2019. Therefore, raising public awareness of the importance of HPV vaccination could improve uptake.
文摘Background: Breast cancer is the leading cause of death from cancer in women worldwide. It can be stratified by histological and immunopathological analysis as well as by molecular subtypes. Socioeconomic and cultural-mediated factors contribute to breast cancer heterogeneity and overall survivability. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the influence of socioeconomic profile on the uptake of immunohistochemistry (IHC) services among women with breast cancer attending tertiary health facilities in Imo State. Methodology: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among women with breast cancer in Imo State. The instrument for data collection used was a structured questionnaire constructed in line with the objectives of the study. A total of 121 respondents were selected randomly from a target study population of 891 using a systematic sampling technique. The software Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21 was used for data analysis. Results: The mean age of the 121 respondents in this study was 45.2 ± 0.7 years. Age and education levels of the respondents were found to significantly influence the utilization of IHC services (P Conclusion: In our study, the consumption of IHC services was influenced significantly by the respondents’ age and level of education. Consequently, public health awareness programmes centred on the importance of IHC services in the management of breast cancer should be encouraged, so as to reach the less educationally endowed and older women in order to save more lives.
文摘Background: Zambia has a population of 17.4 million people of which 48% are unable to meet their minimum calorie requirement and 35% of the children in Zambia are stunted (ZDHS, 2018). In the 2018 ZDHS report, 31% of women aged 15 - 49 had anaemia. Most cases of anaemia in pregnancy are due to micronutrient deficiency and maternal malnutrition. The 2020 Zambia Global Nutrition Report shows an increase in the prevalence of anaemia among women of reproductive age (45%) and low birth weight infants (13.0%) which suggested a need to explore determinants of pregnant women’s nutrition uptake in order to improve the nutritional status of pregnant women particularly those in Solwezi district of the north-western province of Zambia. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on antenatal mothers aged 15 - 49 accessing routine antenatal care from four selected health facilities in Solwezi district from July 2021 to February 2021. Cluster sampling method was used to select the 4 health facilities and the 98 antenatal mothers were selected using systematic sampling method. Data was collected using a pretested researcher-assisted semi-structured questionnaire and analyzed using the SPSS version 26. Chi-square test was used to determine associations between the independent and independent variables. The level of significance was set at 0.05 and the confidence interval was set at 95%. Multiple logistic regression analysis was done to predict associations among variables. Results: The findings revealed that a large proportion of respondents (71.4 %) had high knowledge regarding nutrition during pregnancy compared to (19.4%) and (9.2%) who expressed medium and low knowledge levels respectively. Attitude towards nutrition in pregnancy was positive in the majority, 82 (83.7%) of the respondents, and over half, (55%) of the respondents reported good nutrition uptake during pregnancy. Conclusions: In this study, nutrition uptake in pregnancy was significantly associated with women’s attitudes towards nutrition. It was also observed that more respondents who had a positive attitude towards nutrition had good nutrition uptake during pregnancy. We can therefore, conclude that the research study has revealed that majority of the respondents had high knowledge level and positive attitudes towards nutrition during pregnancy and only half of the respondents had good nutrition uptake during pregnancy which should be able to prompt all the stakeholders of health to focus their attention on behavioural change messages, policies and intervention in order to enhance good nutrition uptake among pregnant women.
文摘Background: Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women, making it a significant global public health issue. Although developed countries have a higher incidence of breast cancer, developing countries like Nigeria have a low incidence rate but higher rates of morbidity and mortality from the disease. Objective: This study explored how cues to action influenced the use of immunohistochemistry by women in Imo State and how many of them used immunohistochemistry (IHC) to diagnose their condition. Methodology: We used a descriptive study methodology for the investigation, and 121 participants were chosen at random from the 891 total population. The respondents were chosen through a systematic sampling procedure. Structured questionnaire was used as the data collection tool, and the statistical software for social science (SPSS) was used to analyze the data. Results: The mean age of the 121 participants in the study was 45.2 ± 0.7 years. The study found that awareness of IHC services is a significant influencing factor for the uptake and health personnel is the major source of awareness of IHC services. Cues to action particularly from health workers, as well as knowledge of any victim of breast cancer and user of IHC services, also significantly influenced uptake of the IHC services (P Conclusion: In our study, utilization of IHC services was also impacted by cues to action, particularly from healthcare professionals, as well as awareness of any breast cancer victims and those who used IHC services thus cues to action is a major predicator of immunohistochemistry uptake among women with breast cancer.
文摘BACKGROUND In 2019,the Nigerian Ministry of Health published the first operational guidelines for human immunodeficiency virus self-testing(HIVST)to improve access to human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)testing services among undertested populations in the country.Also,as part of the campaign to increase HIV testing services in Nigeria,the Nigerian Ministry of Health developed standard operating procedures for using HIVST kits.AIM To systematically review the acceptability and strategies for enhancing the uptake of HIVST in Nigeria.METHODS The systematic review was conducted and reported in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses.Different databases were searched to get the necessary materials needed for this review.Standardized forms developed by the authors were used for data extraction to minimize the risk of bias and ensure that the articles used for the study were properly screened.Identified articles were first screened using the titles and their abstracts.The full papers were screened,and the similarities of the documents were determined.Qualitative,quantitative,and mixed-method studies were evaluated using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme and Critical Appraisal Framework criteria.RESULTS All the publications reviewed were published between 2015 and 2022,with 33.3%published in 2021.Most(77.8%)of the studies were cross-sectional,43.3%were conducted in Lagos State,and 26.3%were conducted among young people.The study revealed a high level of acceptability of HIVST.Certain factors,such as gender,sexual activity,and previous testing experience,influence the acceptability of HIV self-testing,with some individuals more likely to opt-out.The cost of the kit was reported as the strongest factor for choosing HIVST services,and this ranged from 200 to 4000 Naira(approximately United States Dollar 0.55-11.07),with the majority willing to pay 500 Naira(approximately United States Dollar 1.38).Privately-owned,registered pharmacies,youthfriendly centres,supermarkets,and online stores were the most cited access locations for HIVST.The least influential attribute was the type of specimen needed for HIVST.Strategies addressing cost and preferred access points and diverse needs for social media promotion,local translation of product use instructions,and HIVST distribution led by key opinion leaders for key populations were found to significantly enhance HIVST uptake and linkage to care.CONCLUSION HIVST acceptability is generally high from an intention-to-use perspective.Targeted strategies are required to improve the acceptability of HIV self-testing,especially among males,sexually active individuals,and first-time testers.Identified and proposed uptake-enhancing strategies need to be investigated in controlled settings and among different populations and distribution models in Nigeria.
文摘HIV counseling and testing(HCT)has become paramount in the prevention and control of HIV/AIDS worldwide.However,the uptake of HCT has been very slow globally,especially in sub-Saharan Africa.Student nurses formed the largest group undergoing health care training in the country compared to doctors and other health cadres.According to WHO,they are part of the most vulnerable group to HIV infection,judging by the fact that they interact more with patients/clients than other healthcare professionals.This study aimed to determine the prevalence of HCT uptake,knowledge,and attitude and evaluate influencing factors among student nurses and midwives in public nursing schools.An institutional-based cross-sectional study design was employed to collect data from 305 randomly selected nursing students and midwives using a validated and reliable self-administered questionnaire.Descriptive statistics(percentages,mean and standard deviation)and inferential statistics(chi square,logistics regression,one-way ANOVA and independent samples t-test)were used for data analysis using SPSS version 25.0.A p-value<0.05 was considered for statistical significance.Out of the 305 students recruited for the study,60.98%were females,with a mean age of 25.5 years old.About 58.4%of the participants had tested for HIV in the past.About 95.7%acknowledged the importance of HCT in the prevention and control of HIV/AIDS.HCT uptake among student nurses and midwives was influenced by factors ranging from an individual that are interpersonal challenges(such as concerns of friends),perceived susceptibility to the disease,lack of confidentiality,stigma and discrimination from health service providers.Therefore,these barriers can be addressed through an organized targeted health education intervention and advocacy programs across health training institutions in the Gambia and beyond.
文摘The objectives of this investigation are to study nitrogen uptake,translocation,accumulation and distribution in mango tree organs using labeled nitrogen(^(15)N)and to understand the mechanism of boron action in increasing fruit yield in the off-year.A field experiment was conducted using fifteen-year-old mango trees(cv.Zebda)grown at Al Malak Valley Farm,El-Sharkeya Governorate-Egypt.Treatments included the application of(^(15)NH4)2SO4,“in the on-year”,at a rate of 50 g nitrogen/tree through the stem injection technique.While boron was sprayed on the same trees“in the off-year”at the following rates:0.0(control),250 and 500 mg·L^(-1).The authors hypothesize that boron and nitrogen act synergistically to increase mango fruit yield in the off-year.Results indicated that the highest ^(15)N uptake and accumulation in the on and off-years was observed in the upper(young leaves).When boron was applied at 250 mg·L^(-1),in the off-year,the upper(young leaves)recorded the highest ^(15)N uptake and accumulation(%^(15)Ndff=13.93)relative to the other two leaf categories and those of the on-year.In the on-year fruit accumulated higher ^(15)N than leaf or bud.In the off-year,bud exhibited the highest ^(15)N accumulation without boron application,while leaves exhibited the highest ^(15)N with boron application.The highest%^(15)Ndff in all tree organs was observed at 250 mg·L^(-1) boron rate.Boron increased nitrogen uptake,translocation and accumulation in mango tree organs.A synergistic relationship was observed between boron and nitrogen which led to an increase in fruit yield in the off-year.
文摘BACKGROUND Fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography(F-18 FDG PET/CT),a functional imaging method,is usually performed on the entire torso,and regions of unexpected suspicious focal hypermetabolism are not infrequently observed.Among the regions,colon,thyroid,and prostate were found to be the common organs in a recent umbrella review.Some studies reported that a high rate of malignancy was shown in incidentally identified focal hypermetabolic regions and suggested that further examinations should not be ignored.AIM To investigate the malignancy rate of incidental focal FDG uptake,useful PET parameters and their cutoffs in discrimination between malignant and benign lesions.METHODS Retrospectively,the final reports of 16510 F-18 FDG PET/CT scans performed at our hospital between January 2016 and March 2022 were reviewed to identify incidentally observed FDG uptake in the colon/rectum,thyroid,and prostate.The scans of patients with current or prior malignancies at each corresponding location,without the final reports of histopathology or colonoscopy(for colon and rectum)for the corresponding hypermetabolic regions,or with diffuse(not focal)hypermetabolism were excluded.Finally,88 regions of focal colorectal hypermetabolism in 85 patients(48 men and 37 women with mean age 67.0±13.4 years and 63.4±15.8 years,respectively),48 focal thyroid uptakes in 48 patients(12 men and 36 women with mean age 62.2±13.1 years and 60.8±12.4 years,respectively),and 39 focal prostate uptakes in 39 patients(mean age 71.8±7.5 years)were eligible for this study.For those unexpected focal hypermetabolic regions,rates of malignancy were calculated,PET parameters,such as standardized uptake value(SUV),capable of distinguishing between malignant and benign lesions were investigated,and the cutoffs of those PET parameters were determined by plotting receiver operating characteristic curves.RESULTS In the colon and rectum,29.5%(26/88)were malignant and 33.0%(29/88)were premalignant lesions.Both SUVmax and SUVpeak differentiated malignant/premalignant from benign lesions,however,no parameters could distinguish malignant from premalignant lesions.Higher area under the curve was shown with SUVmax(0.752,95%CI:0.649-0.856,P<0.001)and the cutoff was 7.6.In the thyroid,60.4%(29/48)were malignant.The majority were well-differentiated thyroid cancers(89.7%,26/29).The results of BRAF mutation tests were available for 20 of the 26 welldifferentiated thyroid cancers and all 20 had the mutation.Solely SUVmax differentiated malignant from benign lesions and the cutoff was 6.9.In the prostate,56.4%(22/39)were malignant.Only SUVmax differentiated malignant from benign lesions and the cutoff was 3.8.Overall,among the 175 focal hypermetabolic regions,60.6%(106/175)were proven to be malignant and premalignant(in colon and rectum)lesions.CONCLUSION Approximately 60%of the incidentally observed focal F-18 FDG uptake in the colon/rectum,thyroid,and prostate were found to be malignant.Of the several PET parameters,SUVmax was superior to others in distinguishing between malignant/premalignant and benign lesions.Based on these findings,incidental focal hypermetabolism should not be ignored and lead physicians to conduct further investigations with greater confidence.
文摘The present study explored the features and the effectiveness of teachers' oral CF in the classrooms of Teaching English as a Foreign Language(TEFL) for minority students in Xinjiang junior high schools. The analytical framework of this study consulted Lyster's(1998) coding scheme. 720 minutes of classroom observation were recorded and transcribed. The database was coded and the distribution of errors, CF and uptake was analyzed.
文摘The efficacy of focus-on-form(FonF)within the context of communicatively-oriented language activities is measured via uptake.Uptake is defined as learners’verbal responses immediately following either preemptive or reactive FonF instruction(Loewen,2004).The present study investigated what is(not)meant and(not)measured through this definition of uptake.Drawing on the audio-recorded analysis of 20 hours of communicatively–oriented interactions in an intermediate IELTS class with two teachers,this study investigates the frequency of preemptive and reactive incidental FonF,and the subsequent occurrence of uptake in an English as a foreign language context.This study also provided an in-depth qualitative analysis of these classes through field notes,learner notes,and video-recorded data to explore the instances of uptake moves that were not captured through audio-recorded data.The quantitative findings of this study demonstrated a very low and disappointing uptake rate.Furthermore,the study did not find a significant difference between reactive and preemptive FonF in terms of uptake rate.Nonetheless,the qualitative data revealed a myriad of uptake instances not observable via the initial data analysis.Based on these findings,a new definition of uptake is suggested,which includes camouflaged uptake and learners’immediate oral responses to FonF.Since uptake is used to gauge the efficacy of incidental FonF in primarily meaning–oriented classes,it is concluded that audio-recorded data just show the tip of the iceberg as far as the uptake rate is concerned.Thus,second language acquisition researchers are recommended to employ multiple indices to examine the effectiveness of FonF instruction.
